Kayla Polan

At 22, Kayla Polan has already begun to make a name for herself as an artist. Known for her work that is at once sexual and quirky, Polan is looking to change the game for female pop artists.

Earlier this year, Kayla graduated from OCAD University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. As she works on really coming into herself as a professional and career woman, she claims that what art school didn't teach her about being an artist were the practical parts of making a living off your work. Though she learned a lot in the realm of working with different mediums and exercising her talent, she had to learn how to turn it into a business on her own.

Before getting her hands on any project, Kayla pulls out the essentials: coconut water, a good TV show, and a snack.

Kayla cites female artists such as Noelia Towers, Eliza Griffiths, and Holly Coulis as inspiration for her work. Her favourite pop artists include David Hockney, Allen Jones and Tibi Tibi Neuspiel. The pop art style was created and is still to date, dominated by men. Polan hopes to change that and pave the way for a lot more female pop artists to come.

When asked about her age, Polan says though she feels accomplished as a 22 year old established artist, it is harder as a young woman to be taken seriously. Despite this, she's pushed through and has earned major respect in the industry.

Polan recently won an Emerging Artist award and will be doing a residency in the coming year.

In 2017, expect to see Kayla on the panel at the Feminist Art Conference in Toronto as well as in a few major shows. Most of all, expect a lot more crazy, sexy art.

Follow Kayla on Instagram @kaylapolan and check out her work on her website kaylapolan.com